Master of Public Administration

Why an MPA?

What will I learn?

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) focuses on preparing students for administrative positions in governmental and nonprofit organizations. An MPA is a flexible degree that allows you to choose from a variety of options once you graduate. During the MPA program, you will participate in courses in areas including public administration, administrative ethics and values, administrative theory and behavior, public policy, administrative law and policy implementation, public budgeting, financial management, human resource management, and analytic methods.

How will it prepare me for the future?
Perhaps you are looking to develop your current career, or maybe you are just getting started in the workforce. No matter where you are right now, the MPA will help you advance both personally and professionally. The MPA faculty work diligently to ensure that the graduates receive a highly relevant and efficacious educational experience. Classes prepare students beginning their careers to be competent and effective leaders in public affairs, and mid-career students to enhance their capacities as managers and leaders through the opportunities provided for reflection and integration of new knowledge. The core curriculum provides the skills and knowledge desired by employers today while our specialization options allow you to hone your abilities in a 15 credit area focus of your choice.

Why Portland State University?

Experienced and Committed Faculty
Faculty members have accumulated years of professional and academic experience to help guide you as you earn your degree. The lead faculty members teaching in the MPA have competencies and substantive expertise in areas such as local and regional government, public finance and law, nonprofit management, leadership, sustainability, health management and policy, and natural resources policy. All faculty members have completed their graduate studies in fields related to public administration and/or have substantial experience working in the public and nonprofit sectors. Their wealth of experience and dedication to teaching provide students with an exciting and rewarding learning experience.

Unique Partnerships and Community Connections
Portland State is well-known for its focus on community service and engagement, and the Mark O. Hatfield School of Government is one of the best places to take advantage of the numerous community partnerships PSU has developed. Partnerships and cooperative arrangements exist within the Oregon University System (which includes Oregon State University, Oregon Health & Science University, University of Oregon, and more) as well as with multiple health, human service, community and governmental agencies in Portland, across Oregon, and nationally.

Creating Leaders
The Hatfield School has earned a reputation as a producer of well-qualified and passionate alumni. You will be learning with committed students from a wide variety of fields and levels of experience. Through lively class discussions and coursework you will make connections that will further enhance your professional career. The list below provides a few examples of the diverse organizations that hire our MPA graduates:

Bonneville Power Administration
Oregon Department of Justice
US Fish and Wildlife Service
University of Washington
Multnomah County
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
Kaiser Permanente
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
Third Wave Research Group
Portland Metro Boundary Commission
Tualatin Valley Water District
Department of Homeland Security
Portland Police Bureau
Morrison Family Services
Tri-Met
Immigrant & Refugee Community Organization
Oregon Advocacy Commissions
The World Affairs Council
Columbia River Economic Development Council